Starfield: How to Get Free Ships

Starfield is a massive game where you have choices to get your hands on a free ship without buying one. Whether you prefer working hard for it or taking a more adventurous approach, like in GTA, you can decide how you want to acquire a ship in the game. This guide will help you kickstart your ship collection journey in Starfield.

Bethesda

Starfield, the highly anticipated space adventure developed by Bethesda, has finally been released. The game's early access started on August 31, 2023, and since then, millions of players have embarked on their space journeys.

In Starfield, a starship, often just called a ship, is not just a mode of transportation; it's your gateway to the game's universe and a reliable companion. Your ship will significantly influence your experiences and your role in the game, whether you're an explorer, a trader, or a combat pilot.

As you align with different factions in the game, you may gain access to faction-specific starships, each with unique attributes and capabilities. These ships can serve as a symbol of your allegiance to a particular faction. However, these ships can be expensive, and you might want to save your credits for customizing or improving your current ship or arsenal. Thankfully, there are ways to get a ship for free.

Starfield ship flying in space
Bethesda

How to Get Free Ships in Starfield

1. Completing Milestones and Missions

Starfield offers free ships as in-game rewards for completing specific missions and reaching milestones. Besides the initial free ship, the Frontier, given when you join the Constellation at the start of the game, you can earn more ships as you progress.

Here's a list of other free ships and the missions required to obtain them:

  • UC Prison Ship: Acquire it during the Crimson Fleet mission line.
  • Razor Leaf: Complete the Lair of the Mantis mission in the campaign.
  • Star Eagle: Finish The Freestar Rangers questline with The Hammer Falls ending.
  • Starborn Guardian: Complete all Constellation Missions and start a New Game+.

You can acquire these ships by completing the campaign and the missions mentioned above, or you can take a more adventurous approach and steal them.

Boarding a ship in Starfield
Bethesda

2. Stealing Ships

In Starfield, there are two methods to steal ships. The first method involves engaging in combat with other pilots or enemies while exploring a planet. Once you've defeated them, enter their ship, take the pilot's seat, and make your escape. You can then claim the ship as your own by paying a certain amount of credits, or you can customize it to your liking.

If you prefer a less confrontational approach, challenge a ship to a dogfight to reduce its health and then dock with it by selecting the appropriate button. Once inside, eliminate the crew and take control of the pilot's seat to fly the ship.

If you encounter ships with locked hatches, use a Digipick to unlock them, which becomes relatively easy once you get the hang of it. Make sure your ship's targeted lock ability is unlocked before engaging in combat with an enemy vessel.

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